I have the same concerns about the DC functionality... Is it easy to use or does it worth to pay that much etc...
But there's one fact that Nikon has only one FX compatable AF 135mm lens in the actual line-up which is suitable for portraits, it's the 135mm F/2 DC. I think they believe that it's stellar and for a long time did not want to introduce an AF-S version for 135mm. Actually I think it makes sense. Even though the AF is not crazy fast and silent, you have everything in one package: Sharp, fast, OOF blur control, soft focus control and a beautiful color rendition. I personally believe that AF is more than "nice to have" for portraits. I will go for an AF lens in addition to the 85mm AF I own, but not sure about choosing a 135mm or longer.
Nevertheless, on the MF lens side there are various older alternatives (longer than 85mm), which are very affordable:
105mm F/1.8 AiS: Not stellar at wide open but the blur is pleasant. Actually I find it too much expensive compared to the F/2.5 version. But you know, F/1.8 on a 105mm is a gift...
135mm F/2.8 Series E: Does not shine on bokeh side but for that price (and esp. considering the compactness) it's worth to get one...
135mm CZJ Sonnar F/3.5: It is M42 but you can find an adapter easily. Very sharp, and the bokeh is creamy. Unfortunately you cannot use an automatic aperture and connot focus to infinity... But hey, who wants infinity for portrait shots <img src='http://forum.photozone.de/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/smile.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt='
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100mm Kaleinar F/2.8: I personally think, best of the above mentioned MF lenses. The bokeh is creamy, the level of contrast and especially the color rendering is very suitable for skin tones (some complain about pale/non-saturated tones but I really don't think do). It is a native F-mount lens (functions like an AiS) and quite compact.
I hope that you will be satisfied with your choice and also hope to see your samples from the 135mm DC <img src='http://forum.photozone.de/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/smile.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt='
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Serkan